Tag Archives: signs a dog need a vet

Your dog is a furry family member you wake up to every morning. The peaceful morning walks and big, sad eyes for your leftovers are some of the moments you enjoy with your beloved pet. Dogs can show affection, but they can’t talk. How will you know if and when something is wrong? Here are 9 signs your dog is in need of veterinarian care.

Strange Eating Habits

Dogs are known for skipping a meal or two now and then, usually when the temperature outside exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but a dog that skips more than two meals in a short period is a warning sign something is wrong. There are diseases your dog can contract that would cause him/her to lose their appetite. Your dog requires immediate vet care if he/she begin raiding the trash.

Excessive Thirst

Dogs produce enough saliva to keep them from needing frequent drinks of water. If your dog is drinking water at a rapid rate, this is another warning sign something is wrong. A dog that is consuming excessive amounts of water is an indication of kidney disease or diabetes. Keep notice if your dog frequently urinates or has accidents in the home.

Dry Coat

A dog with a dry or rough coat is a sign that there is a problem with their food, they have an allergic reaction or suffering from a skin disease. A dog’s coat should be soft, shiny, and thick. Dogs should never have a coat that displays bald patches or spots or appears dull.

Performing Slow or Excessively Tired

Dogs should not be lethargic. Signs of lethargy may include the dog is unwilling to participate in activities they once enjoyed, including playing and walking. Dogs may experience fatigue or tiredness and sore muscles after walks or other activities in high temperatures which are normal. A dog that has these symptoms more than two days should be taken to the vet.

Nausea and Vomiting

Animals vomit more than humans, and occasional vomiting is no cause for alarm, but frequent vomiting is a sign that dehydration or a more serious matter is occurring. When a dog vomits, it’s to get rid of something that does not agree with their stomach. Vomiting accompanied by bleeding or fever is a sign that your dog is seriously ill and needs to be taken to the vet as quickly as possible.

Strange and Unusual Stools

The condition of a dog’s stool is a good indicator of a dog’s overall health. A dog’s stool should not be hard or dry. Dry and hard stools are an indication of dehydration or dietary problems. The stool should be moist, small, and firm. Some stool shapes suggest worms are an issue. Straining, blood or mucus in the stool and diarrhea that lasts more than two days is a serious concern, and your pet should be examined by a veterinarian immediately.

Sudden or Extreme Weight Loss

Dogs that are overweight and lose more than 10 pounds within three weeks or less could be an indication of a serious health concern. Weight losses in smaller dogs, such as Teacups, become a concern when they lose one pound within three weeks or less.

Cloudy Eyes

Your dog may have an infection if their eyes produce a discharge or appear cloudy or red. Squinting is another symptom that should concern you. Eye infections are frequently and successfully treated with medication.

Scooting and Dragging

An uneducated dog owner may think their dog dragging their but across the floor is funny and entertaining, but scooting and dragging the butt could be an indication of serious problems and complications, including blocked anal glands, diabetes, worms, and kidney disease.

12 Dog Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention

Difficulty Breathing

Restless

Seizures

Collapse/Weakness

Bleeding/Trauma

Vomiting/Diarrhea

Struggling to Urinate

Refusing to Eat or Drink

Coughing

Loss of use of hind legs

Exposure to poisons

Severe pain

How Many Times Should My Dog Normally Visit the Vet?

Vet visits are essential for a dog’s well-being. While you’re at the vet, you can get answers to questions you have and peace of mind knowing your pet is in the best health. The number of times a dog should normally visit a vet each year depends on the dog. The determining factors for visiting the vet depend on the dog’s age, breed, health history, and lifestyle. Puppies, adults, and senior dogs require well-visits or check-ups. Well-visits are routine exams that every dog needs to ensure they are on track with growing, development, and discover any issues that may have occurred or more likely to occur in the future. During the wellness exam, the vet will ask about your dog’s appetite and exercise routine. The vet will ask for a urine sample from your dog and check their teeth.

Caring for Your Dog

Caring for a dog is a commitment and big responsibility. You need to be physically and mentally prepared to pet a pet owner. You need to make sure your home is ready to welcome a dog. Before you become a pet owner, conduct research on the breed of dog you would like to be a part of your family. Choose a vet that will best suit your needs. Some vets care for pets with special health conditions and some do not. When you are looking for a vet, make sure they accept your form of payment and insurance, they are close to your home, and care for your pet in the manner you care for your pet.